Fusilli with tomatoes and basil

Fusilli with tomatoes and basil - a simple and delicious recipe

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Fusilli with tomatoes and basil is a recipe that delights the senses and spreads a springtime aroma throughout the house. This recipe is not only simple but also quick and perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. It's one of those dishes that reminds us of food cooked with love, using simple but flavorful ingredients.

Recipe history

Pasta dishes have a long tradition as an integral part of Mediterranean cuisine. Fusilli, a type of spiral-shaped pasta, is perfect for holding flavorful sauces. Combining fresh tomatoes with aromatic basil and garlic will remind you of sunny days in the garden. What's more, this recipe is versatile: you can easily adapt it to the ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients

- 250 g fusilli pasta
- 450 g tomato passata (or tomato juice)
- 2-3 fresh basil leaves
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chili pepper (peperoncino)

Ingredient details

- Fusilli: These spiral-shaped pasta are great for holding sauces, thanks to their textured surface.
- Tomato passata: Choose a high-quality passata, preferably organic, for a richer taste.
- Basil: This is the ingredient that gives fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish. Use fresh basil, if you have access to it, for an intense flavor.
- Garlic: Choose fresh garlic as its flavor will greatly enrich the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Make sure you use real, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as the flavor will be more intense.

Preparation

1. Boil pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. When the water comes to a boil, add the fusilli and cook according to package directions, usually 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente.

2. Making the sauce: While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat and add the sliced or crushed garlic clove. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown, being careful not to burn, as burnt garlic can give a bitter taste.

3. Add tomato passata: Pour the tomato passata into the pan, stirring well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like spicy food, add a little peperoncino and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you notice the sauce is getting too thin, you can add a little water.

4. Including basil: At the end of the cooking time, add fresh basil leaves to the sauce. They will release their flavor into the sauce, further enriching the dish.

5. Mix the pasta with the sauce: When the pasta is ready, drain it well and add it to the pan over the tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Add the Parmesan: Keeping the skillet over low heat, add the grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until melted and evenly incorporated into the pasta.

7. To serve: Once all the ingredients are well mixed, divide the mixture between plates. You can sprinkle a little fresh basil and grated Parmesan over the top for a appetizing garnish.

Helpful hints

- You can add vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant to the sauce to add extra flavor and nutrients.
- If you like a creamier sauce, you can add a little cream or ricotta before adding the Parmesan.
- This goes great with a fresh green salad and a piece of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, whole wheat fusilli is a great option for extra fiber and nutrients.
2. How can I spice up the sauce? Add more chilli peppers or even a few drops of hot sauce at the end.
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of passata? Absolutely! Chop the fresh tomatoes and cook them in the same way as the passata, taking care to let them simmer a little longer to reduce.

Nutritional benefits

Fusilli with tomatoes and basil is a balanced meal, rich in carbohydrates from the pasta, vitamins C and K from the tomatoes and basil, and protein from the Parmesan. It's a great choice for a healthy dinner that won't break your budget, as the ingredients are affordable.

Combine this dish with a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea to complete the culinary experience.

So feel free to get cooking! This fusilli with tomatoes and basil recipe will surprise you with its simplicity and flavor. Enjoy!